.……Hunger forced me into stealing hospital equipment —Suspect confesses.
To ensure hitch-free security during this festive period, the Ondo State Commander of Amotekun Corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, has apprehended 29 suspects, with seven others currently under interrogation, for various offences ranging from rape and burglary to attempted murder.
Speaking at the Corps Headquarters in Akure, while given a detailed overview of the state’s security situation during the past week, Adeleye revealed that the arrests were the result of intensified patrols and intelligence gathering across the state.
He assured residents of the Corps’ commitment to maintaining peace and curbing criminal activities, particularly during the festive season.
Among the suspects paraded was one Tope, apprehended for attempted murder and illegal possession of firearms.
Also, Ralph Ajanaku was accused of threatening a woman with a weapon in an attempt to rape her, while the trio of Moses, Sunday, and Joshua were allegedly involved in theft and issuing threats to life.
Speaking further, Akogun Adeleye said a total of 10 individuals were linked to burglary, breaking and entering, and the sale of stolen items.
“Among these, a notorious member of a vehicle and motorcycle theft syndicate, known for disassembling stolen vehicles and selling them as scrap outside the state, was apprehended.
The operatives also arrested a serial housebreaker who had been jailed twice in the last three years.
“Shockingly, he resumed burglary activities within two weeks of his release from the correctional facility.
Among the suspects was Ajana Oluwa, a 16-year-old student of Commercial High School, Akure, who confessed to raping his 24-year-old neighbour at knifepoint.
According to his statement, the crime was unprovoked, and he expressed remorse for his actions.
Another suspect, Borokini Ayodeji, a 25-year-old Eiye cultist, admitted to stealing from a hospital on Arakale Road out of hunger. Ayodeji, who had trained as a tailor, revealed his struggles with poverty and lack of support to establish his craft.
The Amotekun Commander highlighted significant achievements in curbing crime, noting that no incidents of kidnapping had been reported within the state metropolis in the past two weeks.
However, kidnapping cases were recorded at the state borders with Edo and Kogi, with efforts underway to rescue the victims.
To ensure safety during the yuletide season, 1,200 personnel have been deployed across the 18 local government areas, supported by regular patrols and show-of-force exercises.
The Commander encouraged residents to utilise the distress hotline (08079999989) for reporting suspicious activities.
He also advised against buying second-hand items without verifying original receipts, as it could inadvertently support criminal activities. “If you see something, say something,” he emphasised, urging timely reporting of suspicious activities.
Amotekun’s operations extend beyond Ondo State, with inter-state collaborations enhancing border patrols. Partnerships with Ekiti, Osun, and Ogun states aim to prevent criminals from exploiting border areas as escape routes.
The Commander revealed ongoing joint efforts with Ekiti State to resolve a high-profile case.
Sanusi Akeem, a 28-year-old, a web designer from Ile-Oluji, confessed to burglary after struggling with unemployment.
“I stole items like a television, ceiling fan, and power bank from Mr Oke’s house,” he admitted, claiming this was his first attempt at such a crime.
Meanwhile, Ajana Oluwa provided chilling details of his crime, stating, “I don’t know what came over me. I regret my actions.”
The Commander assured residents of their safety throughout the festive season, calling for cooperation to maintain peace and order. “The state is safe, and with your cooperation, we can ensure a crime-free yuletide,” he concluded.
Adeleye added that efforts are ongoing to dismantle criminal syndicates and ensure that culprits face the full weight of the law.
As Ondo State prepares for Christmas celebrations, the efforts of Amotekun Corps and the collaboration of residents promise a secure and peaceful festive period.
